UK-based engineering firm Engine has been acquired by Next for a massive $103.5 million deal.
Next 15 Communications Expands Operations with Acquisition of Engine U.K.
Next 15 Communications, a tech and data-driven network listed on the AIM, has completed the acquisition of Engine U.K., the London-based parent company of MHP Group. The deal, worth approximately $103.5 million (77.5 million pounds), brings 600 members of staff to Next 15 Communications.
The acquisition will significantly expand Next 15 Communications' operations, with the acquired team working across digital transformation and creative services. The staff are based in the U.K. and have expertise in sectors undergoing transformation, such as environmental and sustainability communications.
The strategic impact of this acquisition is twofold. Firstly, it will integrate Engine’s capabilities into Next 15’s operations, potentially enhancing their communications and public relations services. Secondly, it will help Next 15 position itself as a communications partner for clients requiring sophisticated narrative management on sensitive or transformational issues.
The acquisition aligns with broader trends in PR and communications firms, aiming to leverage acquisitions to both expand service capabilities and align client portfolios with evolving market demands, especially around purpose-driven and impact-led communications.
Next 15 Communications, which owns agencies such as Elvis, ODD, Velocity, and Mighty Social, has previously discussed this acquisition, as revealed by Adweek last month. The company operates across Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific.
The acquisition allows Next 15 Communications to incorporate Engine’s diverse communications expertise, which includes working with sectors undergoing transformation such as environmental and sustainability communications. For example, Engine had involvement in climate-related communications and navigating complex sector narratives such as livestock sustainability challenges.
While specific operational changes from the acquisition are not detailed, the context suggests that Next 15’s strategic approach has involved excluding fossil fuel clients unless to help them pivot towards positive impact. This strategic pivot towards sustainability-focused engagement enhances Next 15’s market positioning in the U.K. and possibly globally.
In summary, the acquisition strategically expands Next 15 Communications' capabilities, client portfolio focus, and market positioning towards sustainability and impact-driven communications, enhancing their operational expertise and service offerings.
The acquisition of Engine U.K. by Next 15 Communications will enlarge their business operations, particularly in the fields of digital transformation and creative services. This move is expected to strengthen their finance and industry partnerships, as the newly acquired team possesses expertise in sectors undergoing transformation, such as environmental and sustainability communications.
With the integration of Engine's capabilities, Next 15 Communications aims to fortify its position as a key player in communications and public relations services, focusing on sophisticated narrative management for clients grappling with sensitive or transformational issues.
